In the history of cinema, certain films and their casts have left an indelible mark on audiences, their performances forever etched in our memories. One such movie is the 1959 film Imitation of Life, a poignant melodrama directed by Douglas Sirk. The film is based on Fannie Hurst’s 1933 novel of the same name and is the second on-screen adaptation of the story.
Imitation of Life centers around two single mothers Lora Meredith (Lana Turner) and her Black housekeeper Annie Johnson (Juanita Moore). As their lives intertwine, they face the challenges of racism and personal sacrifices. Lora, who dreams of becoming a famous actress, is able to accomplish her goals but her success ultimately puts a strain on her relationship with her daughter. Annie, whose daughter is biracial, also has a challenging relationship with her daughter, Sarah Jane who passes for white and attempts to completely disregard her Black mother.
Beyond its compelling storyline, the film boasts a stellar cast whose exceptional performances have contributed to its enduring legacy. Let’s take a closer look at the talented actors and actresses who breathed life into these iconic characters.
Lana Turner as Lora Meredith
Lana Turner was a versatile and iconic actress. She rose to stardom in the 1940s with standout performances in Ziegfeld Girl (1941) and The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946). At the center of Imitation of Life is Turner’s portrayal of Lora Meredith, a determined aspiring actress.
Turner’s performance is marked by her ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from ambition and drive to vulnerability and heartbreak. She captures the complexities of a woman torn between her career aspirations and the responsibilities of motherhood.
Turner’s charismatic presence and undeniable talent make Lora Meredith a memorable and relatable character. Turner passed away in 1995 at the age of 74.
Juanita Moore as Annie Johnson
Juanita Moore began her acting career in the 1940s and earned her breakout role in Imitation of Life. In the film, delivers a powerful and heartbreaking performance as Annie Johnson, Lora’s devoted African-American housekeeper and best friend.
Moore’s portrayal is a masterclass in emotional depth and authenticity. She captures the pain and struggles of a woman who must navigate the deeply entrenched racial prejudices of the era while also grappling with personal loss and sacrifice.
Moore’s exceptional acting earned her an Academy Award nomination, making her the fifth African-American actress to receive such recognition. Moore passed away on New Year’s Day in 2014 at the age of 99.
Susan Kohner as Sarah Jane Johnson
Susan Kohner was born in 1936 to Mexican actress Lupita Tovar and American film producer, Paul Kohner. Kohner’s portrayal of Sarah Jane, Annie’s fair-skinned daughter, is a standout performance in Imitation of Life. Kohner captures the internal turmoil of a young woman grappling with her racial identity, torn between the desire to escape the societal constraints of her African-American heritage and the love she has for her mother.
Kohner’s heartfelt portrayal brings depth and nuance to Sarah Jane’s complex journey, highlighting the film’s exploration of racial identity and the consequences of denying one’s heritage.
For her role in the film, Kohner earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Kohner retired from acting in the mid 1960s and has remained mostly out of the public eye since.
John Gavin as Steve Archer
John Gavin was an was an American actor and diplomat who rose to stardom during the 1952. He shines in the role of Steve Archer, a charismatic and charming young man who becomes Lora’s love interest. Gavin’s chemistry with Lana Turner is palpable, and his performance adds a layer of romantic tension to the narrative.
As the film progresses, Gavin adeptly reveals the character’s flaws and vulnerabilities, showcasing his range as an actor. His portrayal of Steve adds depth and complexity to the story, exploring themes of love, ambition, and the sacrifices we make for success.
Gavin was the United States Ambassador to Mexico from 1981 to 1986. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 86.
Sandra Dee as Susie Franklin
Sandra Dee began her career as a model before transitioning to acting in the late 1950. In Imitation of Life, Sandra Dee portrays Susie Franklin, Lora Meredith’s daughter. Dee’s performance as the young and innocent Susie brings a sense of lightness and charm to the film. Her interactions with Turner and the other cast members highlight her natural talent and ability to evoke genuine emotions.
Dee’s presence provides a much-needed counterbalance to the weightier themes explored in the movie, creating a delightful dynamic on screen. Dee continued to do on-screen work until the early 1980s.
Throughout her life, she battled an eating disorder and struggled with mental health challenges. She passed away in 2005 at just 62 years old.
Karin Dicker as Sarah Jane (age 8)
Karin Dicker is a Los Angeles native who rose to prominence in the early 1950s for her role in the TV series Lassie. Fans of Imitation of Life will remember Dicker as the younger version of Sarah Jane. Dicker continued to act through the early 1960s and has since been absent from the spotlight.
Terry Burnham as Susie (age 6)
Born Elizabeth Teresa Burnham, Terry Burnham began her acting career at 6 years old in the TV series Climax! She made her debut film appearance in Imitation of Life and continued to act throughout the 60s before making her final on-screen appearance in 1967. Burnham passed away 2013 at 64 years old.
Final Thoughts
The cast of Imitation of Life was filled with talented individuals who brought their characters to life. Together, these actors formed an ensemble that elevated the film to iconic status. Their performances continue to captivate audiences and serve as a testament to their immense talent.
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Dezo is the editor-in-chief of Celebtainment. She has over 10 years of experience in entertainment writing. Email: editor@celebtainment.com
